System, processes audit vital for safety

A SYSTEM and processes audit is an important aspect of compliance and monitoring of occupational health and safety in mines, according to the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA).
Mines chief inspector Lave Michael said this after mine inspectors completed a two-day training in auditing health and safety systems and process practiced by mining companies in Papua New Guinea.
The training was delivered by Richard Rhimes of R4 Risk Australia.
R4 Risk delivers risk management training.
It has global experience with high hazard industries including mining.
“Mining companies have their own processes which they follow to ensure their workers are safe when working,” Rhymes said.
“However, we as regulators need to be satisfied that processes that companies have are of the highest standards and have no loopholes that may result in incidences or fatalities.
“As always, we must be independent in our assessments and this training is aimed at further strengthening that independence.”
Michael explained that it did not mean that the inspectorate had not been monitoring mining companies’ practices and safety performances.
“We have always been keeping a close watch on health and safety compliance as per the Mining Safety Act of 1977,” he said. “We have inspectors at mine sites, regularly doing inspections and monitoring compliance orders given to companies.”
However, Michael said compliance and regulation had always been on performances of companies which was generally a result of the processes that they follow.
“The training that inspectors have received will enable them to audit companies’ processes which is a proactive and a preventative measure.”